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Air New Zealand will begin upgrading its Boeing 777-300ER fleet next year, introducing new Business Premier and Economy cabins as it continues to modernise its long-haul product.
The refurbishment programme will align the 777 experience more closely with the airline’s retrofitted Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, creating a more consistent onboard product across its international network.
Chief customer and digital officer Jeremy O’Brien says the investment reflects both customer expectations and the long-term role the aircraft will continue to play.
“Our current Business Premier and Economy cabins have served us exceptionally well since we welcomed the first 777-300ER into our fleet in late 2010, however the time is right to raise the bar once again.
“Our Boeing 777-300ER aircraft continue to play a key role in our international network, and upgrading the interiors means we can keep these aircraft flying for longer, while reducing the maintenance demands that come with an older cabin product.”
The refreshed Business Premier cabin will feature 44 Collins Elevation seats in a reverse herringbone configuration, with lie-flat beds, privacy doors and upgraded entertainment systems.
Economy will receive new ergonomic seating from ZIM, including Economy Stretch seating, larger inflight entertainment screens and USB-C charging. Premium Economy will remain unchanged, having undergone a separate refresh over the past year.
The first Boeing 777-300ER is scheduled to enter refurbishment in March 2027 before returning to service in May. The programme follows Air New Zealand’s ongoing retrofit of its Boeing 787-9 fleet as the airline continues investing in its long-haul offering.
